Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

If you’re looking for a vibrant and refreshing dish that celebrates the flavors of summer, you’ve come to the right place! My Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad is a delightful combination of sweet grilled pineapple and creamy dressing that will brighten up any meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this salad is sure to please everyone at the table.

What makes this recipe special is its versatility. It’s not only easy to prepare, but it also showcases fresh ingredients that are both nourishing and delicious. Trust me, once you try this salad, it will quickly become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights.
• Bright Flavors: The combination of citrus juices and grilled pineapple creates a burst of freshness in every bite.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fruits and vegetables, this salad is as nutritious as it is tasty.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make extra dressing and salad components ahead of time for quick lunches throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the simple, wholesome ingredients that make this salad shine. Each one adds its own unique flavor and texture to the dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Creamy Citrus Dressing

• 1/2 cup fresh squeezed orange juice
• 1/4 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
• 1 Tablespoon Califia unsweetened almond milk
• 1/4 cup loosely packed fresh parsley
• 3/4 cup olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 Tablespoon minced shallots
• pinch of salt

For the Salad

• 4 slices pineapple
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 corn on the cob
• 1/2 cup pepitas
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 2-3 cups fresh mixed greens

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Some Crunch: Toss in some sliced almonds or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Change Up the Greens: Try using kale or spinach instead of mixed greens for a different flavor profile.
• Swap Out the Fruit: Experiment with other fruits like mango or strawberries depending on what’s in season.
• Make It a Meal: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein to turn this salad into a full meal.

How to Make Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by combining all the dressing ingredients in a mason jar. Using an immersion blender, blend everything until smooth. This creamy citrus dressing will be full of flavor and adds a wonderful richness to your salad.

Step 2: Grill the Pineapple

Next, heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure those grates are clean because we want that beautiful char! Lightly brush your pineapple slices with olive oil before placing them directly over the flame. Sear each side for about 2 minutes until they develop lovely grill marks.

Step 3: Cook the Corn

While your pineapple is grilling, toss your corn on the cob onto the grill as well. Cook it over direct heat for about 5 minutes per side until it’s slightly charred. This will enhance its sweetness and add a smoky flavor.

Step 4: Assemble Your Salad

Once everything is grilled to perfection, remove the pineapple from the grill. After letting it cool slightly, cut off those delicious charred kernels from the corn cob. In two salad bowls, fill with fresh mixed greens as your base.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Now it’s time to layer! Place two slices of grilled pineapple on top of each bed of greens. Divide up the remaining ingredients like corn kernels, pepitas, blueberries, and avocado between both bowls.

Step 6: Drizzle & Enjoy!

Finally, drizzle as much creamy citrus dressing as you desire over each salad. Give everything a gentle toss if you’d like or leave it layered for a beautiful presentation. Dig in and enjoy every bite of this refreshing dish!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

Creating the perfect salad is all about the little details, and these tips will ensure your Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad shines!

• Use fresh ingredients: Freshly squeezed juices and ripe produce elevate the flavor of your dressing and salad. The natural sweetness and acidity from fresh fruits make a huge difference compared to bottled alternatives.

• Balance flavors: Adjust the citrus juices to your taste. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a bit more orange juice or reduce the lemon juice. Finding that perfect balance can transform your salad!

• Prep ahead: Make the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of your dish.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative by adding other toppings like toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch, or even diced bell peppers for some added color and nutrition.

• Grill with care: Ensure your grill grates are clean and oiled before grilling. This prevents sticking and gives your pineapple those beautiful grill marks that not only look great but also enhance flavor through caramelization.

How to Serve Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad

This vibrant salad makes for an impressive presentation, whether you’re serving it at a summer gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home. Here are some ideas on how to serve it up beautifully!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkling chopped fresh mint or cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the citrus flavors beautifully.
• Edible flowers: Consider adding edible flowers like nasturtiums or pansies for a pop of color and elegance that will impress any guest.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf with vegetables provides a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet notes of grilled pineapple while adding protein to your meal.
• Chickpea Salad: A refreshing chickpea salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette offers a hearty side that complements the main dish’s flavors.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Crispy roasted sweet potatoes bring sweetness and texture to the table, making them an ideal side dish for this vibrant salad.
• Vegetable Skewers: Colorful vegetable skewers grilled alongside your pineapple can provide additional smoky flavors while keeping things light and healthy.

With these tips on serving and garnishing, you’ll be ready to impress family and friends with your delicious Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can make the dressing ahead of time and enjoy a fresh salad throughout the week. Here are some tips for storing and utilizing leftovers effectively:

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Keep any unassembled salad ingredients separate to maintain freshness; store grilled pineapple, corn, and avocado in individual containers.

Freezing

• While it’s best to enjoy the salad fresh, you can freeze the grilled pineapple slices. Place them in a freezer-safe bag with as much air removed as possible.
• The creamy dressing is not suitable for freezing due to its texture.

Reheating

• If you have leftover grilled pineapple or corn, reheat them on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• The salad itself is best served cold, so assemble just before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dish:

Can I adjust the sweetness of the Creamy Citrus Dressing?

Absolutely! If you prefer a sweeter dressing, consider adding a touch of maple syrup or agave nectar to enhance its flavor.

What can I substitute for the grilled pineapple in this recipe?

If pineapple isn’t your favorite, try using grilled peaches or mangoes for a similar sweetness that pairs well with the creamy citrus dressing.

How long does the Creamy Citrus Dressing last?

The dressing can last up to a week when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good shake before using!

Can I use other greens besides mixed greens?

Certainly! Feel free to use your favorite greens like spinach or arugula for added variety and flavor.

Is this salad customizable?

Yes! This salad is very versatile; feel free to add other fruits, nuts, or seeds according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Creamy Citrus Dressing + Grilled Pineapple Salad brings sunshine into your kitchen! With its refreshing flavors and vibrant colors, it’s not just a meal—it’s an experience. Enjoy creating it just as much as you’ll enjoy eating it. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and share your own twists on this recipe. Happy cooking!